August could be the rainiest month of the year. However, the blue sky, the clear water, and the alluring landscape on sunny days are worth your visit. Although it is very hot, many tourists still choose August for traveling to Halong bay since it is very suitable for water activities.
Halong Bay weather in August
The temperature in August ranges from 25 to 32°C. August can be considered the hottest month. You will feel it is sweltering due to the high humidity. The average humidity is 80%.
Rains often come with thunderstorms in August. With around 16 rainy days per month together with higher chances of storms, the weather this month may affect your cruise trip. However, it will be very nice and bright after that. The rainfall is at its highest level which is 265mm, thus you can expect some cooler days thanks to the rain.
The sea temperature is a bit warm at around 30°C. But you will feel more comfortable extending water-based activities such as kayaking or swimming.
Visit Halong Bay in August - What you will enjoy
- Not sunny all day but 6 hours of sunlight is still suitable for sightseeing and joining offboard activities.
- Low season advantage - Budget-minded travelers cannot miss good deals during August.
- Suitable for a beach vacation.
And what you may not like very much
- It is extremely hot in August which may make you feel uncomfortable staying outside
- Heavy rain and thunderstorms often come in the evening.
- Sudden storms may delay your cruise trip.
Local tips to make your trip in August a perfect one
- Bring all necessary belongings to avoid the intense sun such as sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, umbrella, etc.
- Bring water to stay hydrated when you join the outdoor activities. You will quickly sweat and be thirsty under the high heat and humidity.
- Pack a raincoat or other waterproof if you are traveling on rainy days.
- Storms may come quickly the night before but there may be a weather forecast a few days ago. Thus, check the weather forecast frequently and prepare a backup plan.
- It is jellyfish season. Although you rarely encounter a fire jellyfish, bringing some proper medicine is recommended.
- Weekends in August often run out of rooms quickly due to the high demand of domestic travelers. Thus, book at least 2 weeks in advance if you intend to travel on weekends.
- Book with a reliable travel agent and check the cancelation policy due to bad weather conditions.
Festivals in August
- Vu Lan Festival (15th Lunar July): It is a spiritual holiday and one of the most important Vietnamese traditional festivals. The event is to commemorate the gratitude of ancestors in general and of parents in particular.
- Vu Lan Festival coincides with Wandering Souls Day which is believed that the gate of hell will open and set imprisoned souls free in 24 hours to come back to their former homes. It is a chance for the Vietnamese to give offerings to these souls and wish them to be liberated. Travelers can see worship rituals and spiritual activities in many pagodas all over Vietnam. In Quang Ninh, there are some pagodas where you can come to learn more about the festival including Ba Vang Pagoda, Yen Tu Pagoda, Cua Ong Temple, Cai Bau Pagoda, Long Tien Pagoda, etc.
